How to Know If Your Outdoor Pipes Need Insulating This Winter

As temperatures dip and homeowners begin checking off their winter to-do lists, don’t let one essential task slip through the cracks. Safeguarding your pipes is one of the most important (and most easily overlooked) tasks of the season. After all, frozen pipes don’t just disrupt morning routines—they can cause extensive and costly damage. 

Thankfully, insulating outdoor piping can prevent major headaches once winter weather arrives. Here's whether your outdoor pipes could benefit from extra insulation this winter, plus expert tips for keeping them protected.

Why Pipe Insulation Matters More Than You Think

In a recent survey conducted by Hippo Home Insurance, burst pipes rank among the most disruptive cold-weather home disasters. Courtney Klosterman, a home insights expert at the insurance company, explains the stakes clearly:

"When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause cracks. Once thawed, those cracks can release gallons of water. The damage often goes beyond plumbing. Water leaks can ruin drywall, warp flooring, compromise insulation and damage personal belongings."

And repair costs add up quickly. As Klosterman notes, “Repairing a burst pipe costs an average of $400 to $1,500, while water damage cleanup can increase the total to $2,000 or more.”

When outdoor pipes burst, property damage can be just as detrimental, including flooded yards, damaged foundations, and structural issues in the home.

But fortunately, proper insulation dramatically lowers the risk. “Proper pipe insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing during colder temperatures and can save you from costly repairs,” says Klosterman. “Preparing your pipes for winter temperatures and holiday entertaining can help you avoid emergencies like pipe bursts and water damage.”

Do Your Pipes Need Insulating?

Climate plays a major role in whether insulation is necessary. According to Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi, “Most people recommend wrapping or insulating outdoor pipes when temperatures dip below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.”

Once the time comes, “identify pipes exposed to cooler temperatures, including those in unheated basements, crawl spaces, or attics,” instructs Klosterman. “Insulate exposed pipes in these unheated areas.”

Surprisingly, this recommendation especially applies to homes in typically warmer areas. “In warmer climates, houses aren’t designed to withstand cold temperatures,” notes Hicks, “so it’s always a good idea to insulate your pipes before temperatures dip below freezing.”

How to Insulate Pipes: What Materials Work Best?

There’s no shortage of products promising to protect pipes, but the professionals tend to recommend the same tried-and-true materials. "Use foam pipe insulation, which is easy to install and provides a good barrier against heat loss," says Klosterman. "For more vulnerable pipes," she adds, "consider using heat tape or cables to keep them from freezing in extreme cold."

Hicks similarly recommends foam, fiberglass, and rubber for insulating outdoor pipes. "You can find these materials at a local hardware or home improvement store," she says.

Pro Tips for Staying a Step Ahead of Winter Weather

Even diligent homeowners can overlook important details while winterizing their outdoor piping. For example—hoses. According to home care and equity expert Michael Gifford, founder and CEO of Splitero, garden hoses should be disconnected and drained ahead of freezing temperatures. “For exterior hose bibs, disconnect and drain garden hoses, then insulate hose bibs with covers or frost-proof models,” he says.

Generally speaking, being proactive is key to proper winterization. “Check for cracks or leaks in pipes, and repair them promptly before winter arrives,” he adds. "Familiarize yourself with your plumbing system. Knowing where your pipes run and their shutoff valves can help you identify and address potential problems faster."

A little insulation now can save you from expensive repairs later. And with experts agreeing that it’s one of the most effective preventative measures, this is one winter task worth moving towards the top of your list.